How to follow 'Dark Knight'? Angelina Jolie as the purrfect Catwoman

An open letter to Christopher Nolan:

Dear Chris,

Congratulations on the avalanche of rave reviews for "The Dark Knight" as well as this staggering box-office success that's unfolding right now. It is, in my opinion, the best comic-book movie ever, and I'm genuinely happy for you and your team. Now, though, you have a big problem: What can you possibly do for an encore?

Warner Bros wants to keep this gravy train running, especially since the "Harry Potter" is moving toward a franchise expiration date and the fact that Bryan Singer's Superman reboot fizzled. But where should you start? That's easy: Call your best wardrobe designers and have them start envisioning Angelina Jolie in Catwoman's black-leather body suit. (What about the recent birth of her twins, you say? No problem. I'm guessing that new-mom Jolie will be back in lean, cat-suit shape by, oh, next week or so.)

I'm not sure anyone can actually top Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker (and you don't dare bring any other actor in portray the Joker) but it would be catnip to fanboys everywhere if Jolie was lured to your Gotham to be Catwoman opposite Christian Bale's Batman. And frankly, you have some serious limitations on where you else to turn for your next Bat-baddie.

When I visited with you a few weeks ago at the Warner lot in Burbank you told me that the franchise was best served by villians without supernatural or wild science-fiction origins. That eliminates Man-Bat, Mr. Freeze, Bane,Killer Croc and Clayface, as well as Poison Ivy's large-scale, killer-shrub tricks. Maybe you could turn to Hugo Strange and his monster men; they have some science-fiction elements, certainly, but the lurching, feral monster men wouldn't require the big CGI scenes that you're trying to avoid in your taut crime films. And, as one of the very first Batman villains (Detective Comics No. 36, way back in 1940, pre-dating the Joker), Strange would dovetail nicely with your push to take the hero back to the unsettling spook-show qualities of his earliest incarnations. If you do go Strange, how about handing the lab coat and spectacles to Ben Kingsley, who showed in "Sexy Beast" that he can match anyone's glower?

What other villains? I know we won't be seeing an flame-throwing umbrella: You mentioned when I saw you that the Penguin is "not very interesting" to you and the sour look on your face summed up your disdain for the waddling Oswald Cobblepot. I guess you could go with the Riddler (maybe Eddie Izzard, who has untapped menace beneath his eye-liner?) if you jettisoned the lime question-mark suit.

The best option seems to be Catwoman and the best Catwoman seems to be Jolie. I'm guessing we won't be seeing the Rachel Dawes character in the next film (ahem) so it's time to get Bruce Wayne a new most "Wanted" woman. Hey, maybe you've already got the litterbox ready: I caught that quick line in "Dark Knight" about the danger that cat-claws pose to the crevices in Batman's body armor. Nice. Here's hoping she and her lover-foe Batman end up fighting their way out of Arkham Asylum together or some such fight-and-flirt scenario.

Thanks for listening and, again, congrats on "The Dark Knight." One last thing: If for some reason Halle Berry's agent starts clogging up your voicemail with messages, don't bother returning the calls. Just trust me on that one.

Sincerely,

-- Geoff Boucher

Photo by Martin Schoeller, from Los Angeles Times archives

Comments

[Ted]

wow i couldn't even think of a worse idea than jolie as catwoman.

[Joe]

Terrible idea.....Catwoman has too much baggage from her previous incarnations. Also Angelina Jolie cannot act and Nolan fules his films with excellent actors.

[Dan]

Wow, what a horrible idea this is.

[Jon]

Jolie is not the solution to everything. Better to pick someone fresh.

[ucrazyman]

Catwoman?!? What a way to ruin a perfectly good series. I haven't seen it, but I thought two-face was being set up for the next movie? Anyway catwoman is the worst idea ever...lol

[vigo]

agree,with christian bale and angelina jolie the movie would be great.

[manda]

I highly doubt Chris Nolan would think right now about a possible catwoman. And if he was, I'm sorry but Angelina Jolie would not make a good catwoman at all.

[Gideon]

The thing about superhero movies is they have to escalate. Much bigger booms and more on the line in Dark Knight than in Batman begins... the story, etc was also much bigger. So we're going to go from Joker and Two-Face to Catwoman and.... uh... burglary?

Nolan has a lot of points after this last one, but I would hope he could keep up the current momentum if not getting bigger (and I really don't believe you need to get bigger, but you can't go down unless the story is going to be more psychologically complex which I just don't see with Catwoman.)

I could totally see him doing a Mr. Freeze... it's true that he's a bit sci-fi but he also has one of the best back stories of any Batman character and can be dealt with maturely.

[Kenan M]

yes jolie would be good choice ....... but we have other option as well
CATWOMAN:
1. Kate Beckinsale
2. Milla Jovovich
3. Carrie-Anne Moss
4. Famke Janssen
5. MEGAN FOX
6. Anna Paquin

[Phillip evans]

Why not another actor to play the Joker? Somebody will play the part again one day, why not in the next movie. You can put that makeup on someone else and it would be a closer match than the Rachel Dawes character ever was. The jokers in Arkham now, let him meet Harley Quinn, and bust him out, love changes a man.

[Christian]

"I'm not sure anyone can actually top Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker (and you don't dare bring any other actor in portray the Joker)"

Seriously? We don't think any other actor can do the same job that Ledger did? I think he did a wonderful job - but isn't that why it's called acting? To say someone can't perform the same way is just insane. Don't make the part off limits just because your placeholder who you deem is only worthy of it is gone.

[sean]

Please dear God, do not put Jolie anywhere near Batman. Like every Jolie movie, she will ruin it and it will crash and burn. When was the last good Jolie movie?

[Carry]

I would vote for Jessica Alba as Catwoman versus Angelina Jolie.

[Liz]

Yes on Catwoman, boo on Jolie. I couldn't think of a worst casting choice - besides Katie Holmes (and they've been there, done that). I wouldn't mind seeing Scarlett Johansson in the role, though she's far from looking hispanic. Maybe Rosario Dawsom? ANYONE, really, but Jolie.

[Apollo!]

What about Harley Quinn? She definitely needs to be int he third film as well. But that woudl probably mean Joker would have to be there as well.

[Christian]

It's exactly this kind of limited thinking that keeps the entertainment industry down. Angelina Jolie is nothing but hype, bereaved of talent. It's hype that makes men think she's attractive, but she's not. It's hype that makes men think her breasts are large, but they're not. (And should Christian Bale paste her one in that turgid kisser, who wants to see bovine collagen all over Batman's gauntlet?) Small-minded, suggestible, and hormonally distended men are unable to separate the undeserved glamour with which the media imbue her from what they're observing on the screen to expose a profoundly expressionless, uninspired, almost begrudging performer. The simplest test is to study her performance in 'Kung-Fu Panda': without the benefit of looking at what the gossip tabloids have programmed you into believing "attractive," the viewer is confronted with the inundating woodenness of Jolie's drone despite Pixar's dazzling best efforts. A Batman sequel featuring the most popular girl in school will mark the steady decline into banality. Geoff, love your jizz rag though you may, but do not confuse it with quality and keep it off the silver screen.

[Myron]

No. Absolutely not. What ruined the first Batman franchise is that it became a haven for A-listers to show they could be superheroes, and for the studio to just cast the biggest names they could. It became a game of "Who can get a spot in the latest 'Batman' movie?" And the storyline suffered. Jolie would be a distraction from whatever Christopher Nolan wants to do.

Movie franchises suffer when their handlers begin to view them strictly in terms of the "gravy train" and nothing else.

I do agree with you Geoff, that Batman is the best comic book adaptation ever, which is why I'm surprised you would want to lower it a notch (or several) with an overexposed star in a rather tired role.

[Scott]

Rhona Mitra would be an excellent Catwoman. Need someone relatively unknown

[Andrew]

Halle Berry killed Catwoman...please just leave her to rot. There are so many better (realistic as Nolan likes them) Batman villains out there...Riddler, Clock King, Bane. Jolie would ruin a batman film...leave her out!

[mark]

Love Jolie but think Jessica Alba would do better !!

[Beth]

How bout Jim Carrey as the Riddler?
or someone else i know suggest Robert DeNiro

[Ryan]

How about Cate Blanchett as Catwoman? Duh...

[Kitty Kat]

Hymm...such narrow minds and very ageist. How about Cher? Great actress, great bod and it would be alot more interestingi to see an older hot catwoman after the much younger Batman. Let the mind games begin...Meow!

[MJA]

That's a horrible idea. Nolan needs to focus on recruiting an actor to play "Robin" and needs to bring back the classic Batmobile. Those should be his priorities. Also, he might as well find a new actor for the Joker. With the makeup, outfit and special effects, they might be able to recreate Heath Ledger's memorable performance.

[Michele]

Angelina's has other things to do. I do agree she would be an great catwoman. Anything to erase the stench of Halle Berry in that role.

[cashaw]

I say give Hallie Berry another try with a good, or Jessica Alba. The role of Dark Angel has pretty much trained Alba to be catwoman.

[frank1569]

Here's a different theory:

When Fox and Bruce are discussing the new Batsuit modifications, Bruce asks if it will resist dogs. For no apparent reason, Fox replies that it will resist cats.

Why would he say that? Because it's a set up...?

Later, Rachel Dawes(who never appeared in any Batman comics and is a Nolan creation,) is supposedly killed, but we never see the body, or hear about body parts (or anything else) being retrieved, or see a funeral. Why not? Because she's not dead...?

And Wikipedia points out: "There have been many versions of Catwoman's origins and backstory seen in the comic books over the decades." Which means it's open territory. Wiki also mentions this: "The character has been one of Batman's most enduring love interests, and has occasionally been depicted as his one true love." Which is exactly how Rachel Dawes has been portrayed.

Hence: Maggie Gyllenhaal will return as Catwoman.

[Nomad]

Rather than Catwoman .. develop the "Breaking of the Bat" Story Arc .. where Bane cripples Bruce Wayne and he has to re-train himself to overcome the very person he handpicks to replace him as the Batman ('Azazel the Assasin") - much better fit with the dark mood of Begins / Dark Knight

More on story: http://www.amazon.com/Batman-Knightfall-Part-One-Broken/dp/1563891425

[ConanLibrarian]

Jessica Biel

[Todd Martens]

Hey Geoff,

Enjoyed the piece, and as fond as I am of the Catwoman character, I'm rooting for Harley Quinn if there's another Nolan Bat-movie. We haven't seen her before in a movie, she's had a nice comic life since debuting in the animated series, and there's some continuity with her Joker-influenced stylings.

Upstairs,

[Steve]

No Catwoman
The next villain will be the Riddler
there are so many things that can be done with the riddler.
Chris Nolan take the Riddler and make an amazingly complex story.
No question
Thats where its going

[Movie Patron]

Dumb idea!
Ranks right up there with Superman being a deadbeat dad and Lois Lane being a knocked-up, unwed mother from the last Superman movie.

Just say "NOOOOOOO!"

[Nomad]

How about Breaking of the Bat - Bane cripples Bruce Wayne who must then retrain to overcome the person he picks to replace himself as the Batman (Azazel) ...

More on the story arc: http://www.amazon.com/Batman-Knightfall-Part-One-Broken/dp/1563891425

[Biff Savage]

This is a horrible idea. Like Robin, Catwoman should never again be linked to Batman.

There are dozens of better villains to use. Kingsley as Strange would be grand. As would the Riddler, however i think someone more unassumingly insane, work better than Eddie Izzard someone random like Jason Schwartzman or Jude Law for Riddler is my vote.

[Frosty]

I concur, Keep Jolie away from Batman, Please!

For that matter, keep CatWoman away. How about start a budding relationship with Robin?

Think of how they modified Sandman to make him scary and a real person. Isn't there any villians that you can do the same thing to?

I'm not much of a fanboy, but I would hate to see Jolie in Batman. I was happy to get rid of Holmes with "The Dark Knight." We don't need any "large" actors. I know that point is disputable, but I think Nolan has a good thing going right now.

[Caitlin]

No way! What about Talia? One of Batman's most interesting and passionate love interests, it could bring back the Ras Alghul element. Or, even better, what about Sasha and the Checkmate entity? Both of those could be viable stories without being overly supernatural. Catwoman must be a last resort! Catwoman, perhaps coupled in a small role, with one of these women could make an interesting story, but she should just pop in and out, if at all, like she does in the comics.

[Walt]

I must veto the catwoman idea for some of the reasons listed prior to my post. For the next film, get someone to play the Riddler in a diabolical way (more like joker, less like jim carrey (who was great for that prior film, but these are much darker). Get someone who looks similar to Ledger to play Joker briefly (Mark Wahlburg would work, but would need help getting the character down). Joker's only scenes would be when batman sneaks into arkham to consult with him (like in silence of the lambs) in order to catch the Riddler. Make the entire movie one giant mind trip. This is the only way I can see the next film living up to the current one.

[Eric]

Yes Jolie as catwoman is horrible. She is just a pretty face. Terrible actress. Nolan needs to do something new, never done before, so it is harder to compare it to previous batmans and thus destroy the series if its not perfect. Not every actor is capable of redefining a character like Ledger. Which means we need new villians. There is at least a hundred different villians from the comic books. All of them are less interesting than the joker, so it really is impossible for the next sequel to measure up to TDK. The difficult part is intertwining the villians and the heros in a compelling drama story interspersed with action and explosions.

[Dick Grayson]

You are joking, right? I may have considered Jolie when she was decent ("Gia", "Girl Interrupted"), but with the rash of bad acting and false bravado we've seen of her, she will destroy any credibility in the Nolan Batman series. I think everyone is missing the big picture. All the "villains" in this series have some semblence of humanness and reality missing from the first 4 films. If you are going to consider Catwoman for the next series, then get someone who can at least act. Charlize Theron and maybe Carrie-Ann Moss would be my only two candidate to fit the part.

[Murphy Brown]

No. I don't think Angelina Jolie would make a good Catwoman.

I'd like to see either a Mr. Freeze or a Riddler in the third one. Mr. Freeze would be great because of his background story, plus he has his awesome trademark freeze gun. Yes, he is a little bit too sci-fi, but I bet Nolan could make him work. The Riddler would be cool because Nolan could make him into a mobster kind of guy, and have him wear a green fedora with the green jacket (with a faint ? on his tie).

[Erik]

Thank God Christopher Nolan doesn't listen to nonsense like this. Jolie as Catwoman is pretty much the worst idea ever, considering the fact that Jolie couldn't act her way out of a paperbag. She would have fit nicely in the Tim Burton or Joel Schumacher "visons" (I use that term loosely) that trumpeted style over substance, but she would stick out like a garishly hideous thumb in
Nolan's realistic universe. This is an idea I would expect from a dimwitted Hollywood exec.

[Bosque]

The breaking of the bat storyline really wont work I think. This film is going to need to include a focus of Batman's relationship with the cops, and I really don't think that can mesh very well with that particular arch. Also, as much as I love Harley, I don't see the Nolan brothers using her. Any storyline with her absolutely needs the Joker, and I have a feeling they are not going to recast him for the next movie. If the DID use the Joker again... I am still not sure they would use Harley. She seems a little too comedic and light hearted for the series. If anyone could make it work though, the Nolans could.

Honestly, I really think the Ventriloquist or Riddler are going to be the best fit here, providing that *SPOILER ALERT* Harvey is really dead. I really think a well done Riddler combined with the Batman v. the Police dynamic could surpass even the high standard this movie has left for it. I could maybe see Catwoman as a side villain, but not as the god awful (but very hot) Jessica Alba, nor as Jolie or Barry. I could maybe see giving Maggie the role, but it would be a stretch I don't think the brothers are willing to make, no mater how good she is.

Oh, and correction for one of my associates above: Kung Fu Panda was Dreamworks, not Pixar. Pixar did Wall-E.

[Joker]

And I thought my jokes were bad, dude you need a different profession

[Scott]

Jolie - Horrible Choice... and she's much too political for this series. Two words for you: Keira Knightley.

[Junior]

You have bad ideas. Next time keep them to yourself.

[Nate Crawford]

Wow. You and Joel Schumacher should get together an host seminars on How To Ruin a Film Franchise.
I can't believe you even SAW The Dark Knight if you're making comments such as these.

[Matches Malone]

Terrible idea. Jolie is not the answer to everything. And mind telling me how Bane is supernatural or Sci-Fi? And why cant someone else play The Joker? If you wanna be a casting director, be one. Dont try to do it through your poorly written articles.

[Simon]

What a disgusting idea, I hope you were kidding.

[Izzy]

Jolie is a brilliant idea! I LOVE her commanding strength -- she'd be a great panther instead of some made up kitten! -- Nobody touches her on-screen charisma -- otherwise I'd cast Michelle Forbes or Carrie-Anne Moss -- no freaking ingenues please!!!

[Mazzy]

What about Batman meets that Yuppie Psycho Murderer Patrick Bateman from American Psycho?

[Ivy]

Jolie? Alba? Halle Berry? Enough of the Method actresses, they can only play themselves doing different things. Should Catwoman ever come back, or any other villain, it has to be someone strong enough to carry the movie with the same suspense and strength Bale and Ledger does, otherwise the movie will be lopsided... see Val Kilmer, George Clooney, and the Hall of Lame Batman movies.

After taking Batman to such new heights, weak actors and actresses need not apply.

[Dan Hutson]

A better role for Jolie would be Talia, Ra's al Guhl's daughter and Bats' sometime lover. Check out the Denny O'Neil/Neal Adams books from the '70s and you'll see what I mean.

[BigDragon]

Angelina Jolie? No. Halle Berry? No. I've seen enough of them. Let's try someone new. I want to see a movie -- not a Hollywood career publicity stunt. If they were to put Catwoman in the next movie, I'd actually want the actor to play and fit the role. Angelina Jolie and Halle Berry nearly always come across as themselves instead of the character they're supposed to be. There are so many other villains worth attention too. However, I do agree that with the loss of Rachel Dawes' character, this would be a great time for a female villain.

[Mandrake]

There's always aright way to do any of the above. Look at Nicholson vs. Ledger vs. Cesar Romero. But any of hte over-the-top cartoony characters won't fit in with this run. Batman needs criminals that relate to the everyday person - which is why his movies have focused around criminal gangs - the kind we see in our urban cities all the time - with the supervillains - Joker and Scarecrow - thrown into the mix.

Robin and Catwoman could be done well but it would be hard to pull off. Two Face could return, we could see the Mad Hatter or the Riddler.

But I echo others who said this Jolie would not be a good Catwoman. Don't get me wrong. Angelina is hot beyond measure and I would like to see her in a CAtwoman costume but not playing the part int eh movie. Let's see someone no one here has ever heard of instead. Oh and she better be flexible enough to do her own acrobatic stunts.

[Rob Reyes]

I disagree that Angie is the perrrfect Catwoman, the slot has already been filled. When I saw Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman I dreamed of her for a week.... As Catwoman she was not only lethal but the raw sexuality she exudes is what men dream of... it's what keeps us chasing a dream... she set the pole pretty dang high and I don't see it being reached any time soon!!!

Railroad

[Korey]

What about Johnny Depp as the Riddler. He can transform any character and you could even make the riddler a dark character and we all know Depp can play a dark character. Take Sweeny Todd for example. Possibly make the Riddler into a psychotic person who can only relate things through riddles. You don't have to use the suit that was used in the comics. Maybe transform it into something different

[Tina]

Yeah, go ahead and drag in the Catwoman and feel free to put Brangelina in the film.

As long as you don't mind having people like me boycott the movie because we actually enjoy the current high caliber acting and the return to more 'real' villains as opposed to what was on tv in the 60's and that horrible George Clooney version. They've already screwed up once with the George Clooney fiasco and nearly killed off any hope of bringing Batman back to the big screen. I'd really hate to see them do it again.

[mike]

this article proves that la times writerss should not be allowed to have any input on a comic book movie....ever.

[Mary H.]

Absolutely horrible idea, "how can we RUIN the next Batman movie?" Put Angelina Jolie in a starring role, please, this actress is so over-hyped. A lot of people are just damn tired of hearing every move she makes, and now selling her babies photos to the highest bidder takes the cake... sick of her!! Don't put her in the next Batman unless you want to ruin it!!!!!!!! Put an unknown in the role, but one that can act? Not Jessica Alba, and definately NOT Megan Fox...gosh, talk about a Jolie wannabe.... with all the actresses out there, you would think they could find one that could act.

[Popadopolis]

Here's a different theory:

When Fox and Bruce are discussing the new Batsuit modifications, Bruce asks if it will resist dogs. For no apparent reason, Fox replies that it will resist cats.

Why would he say that? Because it's a set up...?

Later, Rachel Dawes(who never appeared in any Batman comics and is a Nolan creation,) is supposedly killed, but we never see the body, or hear about body parts (or anything else) being retrieved, or see a funeral. Why not? Because she's not dead...?

And Wikipedia points out: "There have been many versions of Catwoman's origins and backstory seen in the comic books over the decades." Which means it's open territory. Wiki also mentions this: "The character has been one of Batman's most enduring love interests, and has occasionally been depicted as his one true love." Which is exactly how Rachel Dawes has been portrayed.

Hence: Maggie Gyllenhaal will return as Catwoman.

Posted by: frank1569 | July 21, 2008 at 08:33 AM
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Bravo! I really think the next villian should be the Riddler, but I can't deny you make a strong, and damn compelling argument as to why it could and maybe should be catwoman...

[john law]

No on Jolie. Although her personality is fairly feline. Is there a unwritten rule I am unaware of that stipulates only an established villain can take the screen. I'm sure with enough pre-film hype, the public with be as familiar with whatever villain they come up with. If you want to remain a purist, stick with the comics.
And an absolute NO on ever bringing the Joker back. This is Heath's legacy and the best performance of any actor, ever. Maybe I'm little caught up in the hype, but to bring the Joker back would overshadow the entire movie and cause bias before the first take is filmed. If there is enough unused footage of Heath, the Joker could be incorporated in the movie in some capacity. To do anything else would be foolish, and in my opinion, disrespectful. Seriously, what would be the point?

[Jay K]

Every time I see a list of Batman villains people suggest for C. Nolan to use, I always think of Lyle "Lock-Up" Bolton as a good choice for the big screen, but no one ever suggests it. Think about it: he's a lesser-known villain, sure, but you could definitely pursue an interesting storyline with him, in regards to where to draw the line between acceptable and unacceptable use of force in upholding the law, and when or whether torture is ever acceptable. It's especially relevant for our society, what with the "War on Terror" and all.

[Perry]

Catwoman? Harly Quinn? Riddler?..wow did we learning nothing from the last Batman franchise disaster? I really hope Chris Nolan doesn't read any of these blogs. The ending of The Dark Knight suggests that Batman will now be a fugitive from society. Bruce Wayne will struggle with trying to bring justice to Gotham while being cast as Gotham's greatest menace. The death of Rachel Dawes (maybe) tests Batman's character to resist punishment and vengance as forms of justice.
The logical follow up to TDK would have Batman's new form of justice employ executioner as well (would love to see the side story of how Alfred and Lucious would handle that)...the only question left is not who will be the next villian, but who will the great powers of Nolan and Warner's bring to hunt the Batman...i'm thinking they need a boy scout

[Swayze]

Angelina Jolie has proven time and again that she can skillfully and convincingly portray powerfully confident women. She is inarguably capable of the athleticism required for "super-hero" stunts, and possesses the sensuality and desirability that ignites the passions of men, and envy of women. Although I see her more as Wonder Woman than Catwoman, I think she'd be the best possible choice for either part.
Her roles as Lara Croft, Mrs. Smith, and Fox are all evidence of her ability to fully embody those mythic characters, and bring to life on-screen the sort of complex, fearless, intelligent women, who can not only compete, but dominate in a male-oriented comic-book genre films. Thumbs up to any future Batman project with the courage to cast this talented actress opposite the hero of Gotham City.

[Lee]

Superhero movies do NOT have to get bigger. That idea is exactly what killed the first Batman movie franchise--they kept trying to get bigger and bigger, until it was all batsuits with nipples. Boo. It is starting to kill Spider-Man, as they wrote 2 1/2 movies for Spider-Man 3.

Batman can become smaller in the next installment.

The Dark Knight was a completely different genre of movie from Batman Begins. Batman Begins was a superhero origin story. The Dark Knight was a crime drama. The third movie could be a different genre entirely too.

We know he will be hunted in the next installment, but by the same token, that will be background to facing a challenge. You could use the Riddler and havea genuine who dunnit (don't use the over-the-top Jim Carrey, Batman TV show version, but an anonymous serial killer. Or, you could put his next adventure against a backdrop of a love story with Catwoman (not a reincarnated Rachel Dawes--boo).

I don't know why someone suggested that Catwoman has to be Hispanic--she can be, but that's not the nature of the character. And people who suggest not using Catwoman ever just because Halle Barry's film was no good are too short-sighted--would you not have done Batman Begins because Batman and Robin was a bad film?

And even though someone may replace Heath Ledger, it should not be for the next film. It's too bad, because the film really set up a possible re-match between Batman and the Joker, but you have to give some space to the next actor to put on the clown make-up.

[a7colbydog]

Folks, Lets lose the cartoonish characters from the 50’s & 60’s. Isn't Batman the world's greatest detective? There are a million story lines out there. We don’t need to revert to Adam West and Burt Ward.

[Lynn]

I seriously don't get the obsession with this woman. She looks a like a man or a drag queen to me

[Celebrity Werewolf Hunter]

The next villain will be the Riddler(Eckhart let it slip in an interview). He is also the only major villain that could exist in the world Nolan created, save Penguin. They are also clearly laying the tracks for Catwoman with not only the Batsuit line, but additionally the fate of Dawes leaves Wayne open for a new romantic interest. Catwoman would challenge the Batman outlaw aspects ending DK and Riddler would finally illuminate his detective skills.

[Doug]

Angelina could use a secret weapon.... The ability to command a huge horde of children to overwhelm her enemies. She's already building her army.

[Curtis P. Whitacre]

So... no one else picked up on the Riddler's possible origins being planted within "The Dark Knight?" If recent conversations with Gary Oldman are any indication, we already know who the next villain is going to be... and he made a subtle cameo in this last flick.

[Doug]

Angelina could use a secret weapon.... The ability to command a huge horde of children to overwhelm her enemies. She's already building her army.

[Bonnie Lee]

You should warn people that your blog has SPOILERS!!

[Cavazos]

For the love of God, NO MORE ANGELINA JOLIE! She would probably use the same accent she used in Beowulf and Alexander. How can someone use the same fake accent in two different movies and get away with it?

[oakmonster]

Maggie Gyllenhaal will return as Catwoman.

Um. Ew.

However IMHO the Batman-Catwoman relationship is a great story development.

As much as I would love to see Jolie is this role, comments are right that her A-list status would kill it. I would like to see an up-and-coming take this role and start over, but how much faith do we have in someone new to stand up to Christian Bale on screen? Catwoman has be able to handle him, you know.

Back to A-list. ScarJo did that once already in The Prestige...too voluptuous? Kate Bickensale did that too...too short? Cate Blanchette would totally work if she throws in the crazy from The Bandits? Natalie Portman would be a delight if she could pull off evil. Tilda Swinton may be?

[Andy]

I don't think Catwoman is an evil enough villain to be part of Nolan's Batman. He seems to like villains who are very psychologically evil, which is one of the reasons his films are so great. The Batman movies before "Batman Begins" were always too comical, I couldn't take them seriously. But now, with Nolan's psychological influence, the movies are great. That said, Catwoman doesn't fit the bill. She can't cause Batman terrible psychological troubles. However, I don't know which villains would work well. Maybe the Riddler, but he also seems too comical, or maybe that was just because of Jim Carrey. I really, truly hope that Two-Face isn't out of the films. He's my favorite villain in all of Batman, and he'd be a great follow-up to the Joker. Maybe Harley Quinn? If so, I think either Eva Green or Marion Cotillard, especially Marion, would do a great job.

I hope that Catwoman isn't a part of the third movie, and I hope hope hope that Two-Face is back. However, I fear that won't happen. I think Harley Quinn would be the best follow-up to the Joker. Being an Arkham Asylum psychiatrist, she could use the inmates to her advantage. Since she's a psychiatrist, she has the potential to be the greatest psychological threat to Batman. I think she is the best choice for Nolan, and Marion Cotillard would do an amazing job destructing Batman / Bruce Wayne.

[sylvia]

They have done an incredible job on the cast so far for the new Batman series (Rachel Dawes character excluded, although Maggie Gyllenhaal was a better choice). I've been a huge Batman fan my whole life. I've actually read the comics, old and new, and I think if they casted Angelina as Catwoman I just might shoot myself in the head. I think she might even be a worse choice for a Batman related role than Katie Holmes.

[bsb150]

Haven't we gone down this road before? Didn't we learn something from it? Please stay away from BradGelina and Catwoman. Certainly Nolan will come up with something better.

[JT]

jim gaffigan as catwoman, rown kitty wants some candy!

[Roy]

TWO WORDS: MAD HATTER.

[Stu]

If you're looking for a good follow-up character for the next movie it should be Harley Quinn. No idea who you could get to play her but I think that's the best option. At least far better than catwoman. Other than her the mad hatter would be the best choice but it might be a good idea to switch it up with a female villan.

[jAMES]

Though Catwoman would be a plausible choice (vs. Mr. Freeze and the Penguin), I think Nolan would move towards introducing a Robin-like character... I say Robin-like because obviously the Robin we know from the comics is prissy and the Joel Schumaker version is just lame. "Holy rusted metal, Batman!" But where he left off, Batman is on the run, has established himself as a true hero because of his ability to be an elemental scapegoat, and the Bat,man needs help. Nolan will introduce a supplemental masked hero, NOT an archetypal sidekick, that grounded to Dark Knight, is originally a victim of the Joker's chaotic fallout, tries to hunt down Batman intended on a reward offered by the police, but later, after a flurry of action-scenes will later join forces with Bale. To further the typical complex Nolan story, Batman, in my opinion was slated to battle the Joker in the following third film, but instead will face someone that will defnitely not be Mr. Freeze. I can't wait.

[ibis]

No catwoman period. Anytime you put a woman in skin tight leather is a sign of hollywood leeching for commercial success rather than quality story-telling. Did you NOT see ledger perform? You honestly think it was his sex-appeal that drove the success of this film? Absolutely not--and that's all you expect Jolie to do if thrown in type of role. Why do you think Spiderman did so well--they hired quality actors like Tobey--the person you least expect in a role much like Ledger's appeal. They have to PROVE themselves as these larger-than-life characters rather and expect the role to be perfectly molded for them. The story's characters are what shines above the actors that play them--and that's what Nolan's good at. Get the hollywood muck out of your head -- this audience wants substance over style.

[sara]

jessica alba as catwoman??? didnt someone say that nolan only places good actors in his movies and people are suggesting "Honey"? She's pretty but a terrible terrible actress. Angelina has an Oscar. hrm...

[Valerie]

No way. Michelle Pfeiffer will always be the best Cat Woman, hands down.

[Trevor]

Um, no. Who wants to see the Old Woman who lives in a shoe dressed in leather? Jolie's a has been.

[jake]

Heath Ledger's performance will be hard to live up to. But Johnny Depp could give a run for his money. He also would make a good Riddler. Johnny is attracted twisted psycho roles and is very good at portraying them. Sweeney Todd for instance

[Earthgirl]

Jessica Alba!? Are you crazy. They want someone who can act and Angelina Jolie would be a good choice, but so would Kate Beckinsale and Megan Fox. Jessica Alba as Catwoman would be as bad as Halle Berry being Catwoman. Jessica Alba is stiff as a board and also very boring. She plays herself in every character. Acting is being someone else and I am sure they can find another actor that can be the Joker. Okay, Heath Ledger is good but he is not the only person in Hollywood, etc that can act. Granted good actors are few and far but surely there is someone else out there.

[Ann]

Johnny Depp as the Riddler.

[Sushi]

The Bane & Azrael story is one of the best in the Batman timeline.

Especially with Azrael, it would help further develop the reoccuring internal conflict of Bruce Wayne/Batman sticking to his "code" as a symbol.

If you haven't read the Bane/Azrael saga, read up on it and I'm sure many of you will agree it would provide a great story for the type of Batman movie Nolan is known for.

[Dasher]

I would not mind seeing a new villian.
One of the reasons the new Superman tanked was because he was acing off agains "Lex Luthor"
4 of the 5 films, superman was dealing with Lex and people got tired of it.

I think a new villian for Batman would be great.
Someone along the lines of "The Punisher" (I know, rival comics) who is a vigilante.
Someone, who like Batman, takes the law into his own hands, but he is setting up our hero for all his misdeeds. Batman needs to catch this guy, and clear his name. All while dealing with the fallout of the most recent movie.

Anyway, that is my take.

[Kevin]

Is Geoff Boucher a pseudonym of Joel Schumacher?

[Zack]

First of all, dude, despite the massive ticket sales, the movie's only been out one weekend. You need a spoiler alert.

Here's my opinion on the villains for the next Batman:

It might be a little awkward to explain how she survived the massive explosion, but Rachel Dawes reveals she was only badly burned, like Two-Face, requiring her to always wear a catsuit and eliminating the possibility of being a real love interest for Bruce. Plus she'll be uber-bitter with the Joker, and villain-on-villain violence is always interesting.

I like the Riddler as a villain, because I believe the appeal of Nolan's approach is to favor the actual over the supernatural. That to me is a defining characteristic of Batman as a superhero, and who cares if it eliminates the stupid comic book villains. Did Batman Begins suffer from not having enough villains from the comic book?

It seems to me that the Joker's presence in the overall Batman story will have to be dealt with, requiring another actor. But if Heath wins the Oscar, only an actor of extremely high caliber could pull it off. Johnny Depp comes to mind. I would suggest killing him off early (by the Catwoman? Whose side is she on?).

Angelina Jolie is the most overhyped actress I have ever seen. She would ruin the franchise, which has set such high standards now any script / casting choice will have to be excruciatingly labored over. I personally think Batman should have killed the Joker, which would have contributed to the dark ending and solved some logistical problems.

PS-my post has spoilers.

[Dana]

My vote goes to Milla Jovovich hands down if they decided to put in Catwoman.
I'm not much for the thought though.

[FDR]

Are you out-of-your mind. Put Halle Berry back in that role. She's far more sexier than Angelina Jolie

[Georgia Lass]

Someone mentioned Batman was the greatest detective. How about a good old-fashioned detective story with a HUGE twist? Joker is in Arkham Asylum and Batman is being hunted. A few of Gotham's major crimelords are having issues with not being on top of the Gotham world anymore (with Gordon now Police Commissioner, the Gotham City Police Force becomes a model organization). Cast Michele Pfeiffer as Dr. Harleen Quinzel. Her patients include Joker, crimelords (ala Tony Soprano types), and Bruce Wayne who's battling psychological issues with being the outcast hunted hero (The Dark Knight). Dr. Harleen Quinzel becomes Batman's new romantic interest. While all the therapy is going on, Batman has to solve the mystery of who's behind a series of daring "cat" burglaries. One of the burglaries involved a murder and for some reason Dr. Harleen Quinzel is implicated. Batman solves the murder (some ex-circus acrobat named Richard Grayson committed the murder but not the burglaries - life imprisonment to prevent him from appearing in any sequels). The burglaries remain unsolved and the movie closes revealing that Dr. Quinzel is behind the "cat" burglaries. Michele Pfeiffer as "Catwoman", but no tight leather outfit...just the outfit and tools a professional "cat" burglar would have.

[ty]

they should have the penguin as a eastern european arms dealer flooding gotham gangs with arms which they eventually turn against each other and him and his goons taking over the streets

[Mark]

Are you serious? Everyone is right. She can't act and Oscar is not always right (Marisa Tomei). Additionally, she's too well known. If you sat down with Nolan or have seen both films you'd realize he doesn't make films with intent to pack them with big name actors in the lead roles. He lets his films turn them into big stars. Chris Nolan is an indie-film director and understands it's not always about the big name in the film but the story and direction, which is why he can take lesser known actors, to the mainstream audience, and give them respectable roles in a film that makes you go, "Wow, he's pretty good. Why is he the much maligned brother of Julia Roberts?"

[Dee]

Halle Berry was already the sexiest cat woman around. Yeah Angelina is good looking but I rather see Halle back in the role.

[K. Bowen]

Jolie, maybe three or four years ago, before her veins became visible. Acting skill aside, the problem is that she would try to be bigger than the film.
If I were choosing, I would choose someone in their early to mid 30s who can act or at least who would fit into the noir style. To me, that would be Marion Cotillard or Saffron Burrows.

[hector cruz]

Hey , why are you so mhostile wtiht tthe catwoman Idea..?

yes Jolie is a terrible choice, but Catwoman as character is cool, also is important part of Batman mythos, IF a man dreesed like a bat can work why no a woman with a cat suit??

of course she can be the mani VIllan for taht Role I suggest Hugo strange or black Mask..

[Keith James]

All I can say to this is:

BARF

[Jane Norberg]

You must be kidding about Angelina Jolie. Please don't ruin one of the greatest movie series ever.
Johnny Depp would be able to pull off the Riddler very well--and he loves those eccentric roles. I vote for him.

[Fletch]

Catwoman is not only one of the most important and signifigant characters in the Batman franchise, but one of it's deepest and most unique figures, in part because she isn't just another villain. Where Batman is a hero that skirts close to the edge of villainy in order to achieve his interests, Catwoman is a criminal that skirts close to the edge of redemption to achieve hers. Batman and Catwoman are mirrors of each other, which is why they're drawn to each other. Done properly, she wouldn't be the villain in a Batman 3. An antagonist, yes, but not the villain, and she'd also be a remarkable character.

Characters like the Joker, Two Face, the Riddler, Mr.Freeze, and yes, Catwoman.. can ALL seem campy, bad, and just a general bad addition to a movie. I mean, none of these characters could obviously translate to Nolan's version of Batman. They'd ALL have to be changed in order to fit. Just as Ra's was. Just as Scarecrow was. Just as the Joker was, And just as Catwoman was.

Catwoman was closely tied to the very plotlines they're currently using in the Batman series, so, no, it wouldn't be stupid, or bad to use her, it'd make an enormous amount of sense for their current storyline. Yea, Halle's Catwoman sucked. So did Jim's Riddler(yes, he was like a really bad parody being done in SNL), Tommy's Two-Face and the less said about Arnold's Mr.Freeze the better. If a single BAD portrayal of character meant we should never use them again, then there would never have been a Batman Begins.

The amount of needless hate being thrown towards Catwoman kindof confuses me. I guess everyone has their opinions when it comes to characters. Yea, Riddler would be interesting. So would Mr. Freeze. But so would Catwoman. And she'd fit like a puzzle piece into the story they're doing, due to her connections to the mob.

Honestly, I don't think you can really say you can 'do' Batman without being able to produce three elements properly. Batman, the Joker, and Catwoman. They're the triad that completes the series. Characters like the Riddler, Mr.Freeze, and all the rest, add flavour... but the hero, his nemesis, and his foil.. are vital elements to the series.

I do agree that I wouldn't put Angelina in as Catwoman. I think she's actually a very good actress, I'm not sure what we're judging acting on if she somehow rates 'zero talent'. I could see her as Catwoman, but in a setting more like Tim Burton's Batman, which was more sensationalistic, and less grounded. For the Nolan version, someone else, I agree. Maybe Laurie Holden from the Mist and Silent Hill. Or her co-star from Silent Hill, Radha Mitchel. Rosario Dawson could be interesting. If anyone saw her as Gail in Sin City, she can definetly do the 'bad girl' role well. But whomever it is, they'd need to be more than 'bad girl', or 'sexy', they'd have to beable to channel a moody, inner darkness to match Bale's Batman. So it'd have to be an actress who's more than just style or looks, one with real acting strength.

[Helene]

You are mistaken - Angelina Jolie is a celebrity, not an actress. She has no place in a franchise like this.

I'd absolutely love Eddie Izzard as the Riddler - if you've seen him in The Riches, you know how well he can act, and it's true there is a certain darkness behind his giddiness. If that makes sense.

I'd also really like to see Barbara Gordon in an upcoming film - but Batgirl is probably too unserious as a character. Maybe if she only appeared as the disabled Oracle, without the Batgirl stuff?

[winston]

michelle pfeiffer owns the role and will always be the best catwoman in my books.

all those actresses you all were throwing out, ridiculous!

[Tengku Shahrizan]

The Eyes! The Mouth! The Body! The Sensuality and the Litter of Kittens....Who can top these criteria but Jolie? I'm all for the it.....she'd make a great villain....bar none!!

[try Aishwarya]

I think Aishwary would be wonderful in this film. She's pretty, she sexy and pleasing to look at. She's fresh and doesn't have that stale feeling that comes with actors that have been used over and over. She looks the part.

I think if you cast her alongside a well known, you'll have a box office blow out.

See below:
http://www.myclassiclyrics.com/artist_biographies/aishwarya_rai_biography.htm

[richard]

Jessica alba,mega fox(look as porn star,mila Milla Jovovich(ultaviolet and resident evil awful movie) all bad actress .Angelina jolie have 3 golden globe 1 oscar excellent actress .look pictures Angelina 2003 and 2004 wonderful woman e and sexy all.

Dark Night is very good because Heath Ledger(before the critic Heath it was awful actor now excellent.

Angelina can make excellent catwoman, does not judge before ,all actor have awful movie and good movie

[JJ]

Jolie will define Catwoman and make it more appealing. The role fits her perfectly.

[maclukey]

worst idea ever!!! angelina jolie? seriously? she can't act and the character of catwoman does not belong in nolan's films! to follow a performance like heath's and a villain like joker, nolan needs to cast a nobody who delivers a better performance than anyone could imagine with a villain no one would have guessed? good luck!!!

[Bobbie]

I posted this comment on the other blog too. In my opinion, I personally think it is a very stupid idea. Jolie doesn't have the intellectual or spiritual dynamism that Catwoman exudes. She can excel in movies that need to be porny or mentally disturbed indies. I am not judging, because there is a market for that. If this were just going to be a silly small-time movie, I would say fine, no big deal. But Batman is a serious blockbuster franchise, and they need to find someone with Michelle Pfeiffer's talent and who doesn't seem to repel people. It doesn't have to be a Michelle copy-cat :) It doesn't even have to be an American actress. I actually think Michelle Williams would nail this kind of role. It doesn't even have to be a well-known actress, though.

[Bobbie]

I posted this comment on the other blog too. In my opinion, I personally think it is a very stupid idea. Jolie doesn't have the intellectual or spiritual dynamism that Catwoman exudes. She can excel in movies that need to be porny or mentally disturbed indies. I am not judging, because there is a market for that. If this were just going to be a silly small-time movie, I would say fine, no big deal. But Batman is a serious blockbuster franchise, and they need to find someone with Michelle Pfeiffer's talent and who doesn't seem to repel people. It doesn't have to be a Michelle copy-cat :) It doesn't even have to be an American actress. I actually think Michelle Williams would nail this kind of role. It doesn't even have to be a well-known actress.

[markus]

ANGELINA JOLIE is PURRFECT for Catwoman. She was amazing at "Wanted" OMG can't wait to see her wear those tight black sutis. Love you Brangelina!!

[Clay]

Seriously, Angelina Jolie is the absolute worst choice for Catwoman of all time. One, she's already played the Catwoman-ripoff character in WANTED, and although the movie wont be anything like the comic, that still counts against her. Two, she's overexposed. Just imagine a year from now when they say "ANGELINA IS CATWOMAN". You thought the hype is bad now just because Heath died, it'll be crazy if they involve her. She would overshadow everything, and then the movie wouldn't deliver because straight up she's not a great actress. She makes shitty movie choices, although then those movies are somewhat successful because they have Angelina there with two guns blazing and her tits popping out. She is an overused equation for cheap success, and she needs to be kept way the hell away from all things Batman. She WILL kill the franchise again, I guarantee it.

[ghanja]

They should introduce poison ivy...they should cast naomi harris from 28 days later and potc.
I'm really feeling the eco terrorist idea thats been bandied about on other sites...She can also have toxins from her herbal garden. I agree that harlequin could be done extremely well by nolan as the psych who lets all the crazies out. Hell I wouldnt be surprised by a love triangle between catwoman...(natolie portman or anna paquin are really interesting since they have such a great ability and innocent persona) and Naomi Harris (think vodun priestess Tia Dalma from pirates).

Anyhow, enough with angelina as the only actress that gets sexy roles. I love her but she is a mum now, let her age gracefully...I agree I dont even care that the actress is American, green blue black or white

If they can pull of what catwoman really is, what poison ivy really is as well as heath did then it will be epic. I dont want anymore pretty but bad acting females anywhere around comic book movies. I thought comics were about the soul..

Also, the idea that catwoman would be a rich play girl is soooo frkn stupid. CatWoman is poor because she doesnt want to exist in society. She steals so that she has enough to take care of her but thats it. Thats why she has alley cats. Batman falls for her because she isnt apart of his ivy league world.

Ive also read that the madhatter would be a good idea...but I think his character as a molester who steals children is even to dark for Chris Nolan...I mean it could be done tastefully but...well see.

[Norm]

Spoilers be here.

Catwoman is the perfect follow up to this movie (but PLEASE not Jolie!). Batman would be conflicted about being attracted to her, and she perfectly complements the themes established at the end of the movie, i.e., blurring the lines between heroes and villains. In Frank Miller's Batman:Year One, Catwoman is inspired by Batman to put on the costume in the first place, not unlike the batmen in The Dark Knight (but not wearing hockey pads).

Other interesting villains could be Hugo Strange on the mob side; The Reaper (who was at one point rumored as the main villain for Batman Begins) as a more lethal vigilante who would hear Batman's new reputation and consider the Bat's attempts to stop him hypocricy; the Riddler as a mysterious person filling the vacuum in the Gotham mob families; but my personal favorite would be Two-Face returning, as he could have survived that fall (Maroni survived a similar fall earlier in the film) and been quietly tucked away in Arkham, part of the cover up to preserve the White Knight of Gotham's image. I'd like to see Harvey again so much that if the "Riddler" took over the crime families, but when Batman finally found him it turned out to be Two-Face, I would be ok with the fact that Nolan is completely rewriting Batman cannon.

So, Catwoman and one of the above gentlemen, with an emphasis on walking the line between being the hero and the villain. Please no Angelina Jolie or Jessica Alba, though. Better no Catwoman than a lame Catwoman.

[kj]

how bout streisand as catwoman?

[domino78]

Ah give Halle Berry a break on Catwoman. She was just doing her job. She didn't write or direct the movie and Warner Bros financed it. So give her a break. I think she would be great with Nolan directing it.

[Ljubav]

I say NO WAY to putting Angelina into the catsuit. He lips are too big, she's too bitchy, and a little chubby if you ask me. The person would have to be athletic/sexy/smart/seductive all at the same time. Jessica Biel, Scarlett Johansson, and even the hott Megan Fox could pretty much nail being Catwoman easily.

[Asaidi]

First thing, Angelina Jolie has already done her version of Catwoman SEVERAL times in the past (Wanted, Mr and Mrs Smith, 2 Laura Croft movies, Beowulf, etc). There are much better choices out there if they wanted to go with her for the next Batman movie.

If they're going to go with what he has gone with in the past - a somewhat well known person who will probably be from another country playing an American (like Christian Bale, Cillian Murphy, Gary Oldman, Heath Ledger, etc) - I guess one of the obvious choices is Naomi Watts, but I'm not sure she'd be that good. Now that there is a incredible Joker character they'll need to follow it with an incredible villain in the next one.

Second thing, I really think they could go with the Ridller for a future Batman villain and completely change the character, sort of like they did with the Scarecrow and Ra's Al Guhl in Batman Begins. All they need to do is ditch the green question mark costume and make him a dark character who leaves mysterious riddles about who he's going to kill next, instead of broadcasting it to the whole city like the Joker does.

As for your comment about the Penguin, Bane, Mr Freeze, etc, I'm with you. They're fairly frivolous characters anyways.

[Ralph]

Please no, I'd rather not see another Batman than have that lame idea incorporated. Now that the C. Nolan's Batman has become a mega hit, he's really gonna have to become a tough SOB to repel lame ideas like this blogger guy's. All the studios are gonna throw 250+ million dollars at the guy for the next one, as long as it attaches a "star" to neuter it with (no pun intended). Hey, here's a thought, maybe we can give the guy credit for writing a strong new villain or taking one that is sci-fi based and humanizing him.

[KatVoman]

Angelina Jolie as Catwoman? FAR AWAY from cat like woman. And that's what it needs to be.. Someone young, cute and pale who looks like a cat. Without cat's eyes make-up. Angelina looks like a fish and cats eat fishes.

[KatVoman]

And Jessica Alba's ethnicity just doesn't seem right. She also has brown eyes. I have 13 cats and they all have green, blue or grey eyes. Catwoman should also have small head, especially her chin and nose. Should not have as big boobs as Angelina Jolie. Not so tall either and definitely not so old.

[Scott]

The Riddler has some real psychological meat as a character. He is intellectual and obsessive compulsive, leaving clues beyond his control. He is cursed by an infliction of wanting to be pursued. There is a lot there for a great reimagining by a talented actor. I think given the dark world Nolan makes in his films, the Riddler has some potential to be realistic and creepy and human. You have to remove the image in your mind of comedians in the part and think of somebody as complex as Ledger in the role. Think Daniel Day Lewis messing with our minds.
Catwoman is just a hot woman in a leather suit. It sort of moves the thing into more camp, which would hurt.

[matt]

I think Angelina would make a great Catwoman!! I was actually thinking Scarlett Johanssen (if she wasn't Vicky Vale) but Jolie seems better, actually. What's all this nonsense that she can't act? WHAT?! Just because she is hot as hell means she can't act?!! Did anyone see Gia, Girl, Interrupted, Playing by Heart, The Bone Collector, A Mighty Heart??? Jolie is an excellent actress and you could totally make her some kind of schitzo, psycho catwoman. Hm....maybe Jennifer Connelly would be a good catwoman!! Oh hell yeah, sorry Angie...you're awesome, but Connelly...that's it right there. Mabye Johhny Depp as the Riddler (or Al Pacino, or Billy Crudup) and Reese Witherspoon as Vicky Vale.

[Haz]

People seriously? You're angry at Angelina Jolie being suggested (a bit of a general overreaction anyway might I add) because you think she can't act but will openly suggest Jessica Alba who has less talent at acting than Jolie has in one finger?
Come on, can we please stop suggesting Actresses by hottness and focus more on combined hottness and actual ability to play a psycho?

[Chris]

Heath was great, but a slightly changed Joker due to Arkham could make it possible for Johnny Depp to slip into the role and give us his take.

[Benarchy]

I think Angelina would be a great choice as Catwoman. Christopher Nolan is not above casting big names on for his Batman movies (e.g. Morgan Freeman and Michael Caine), so people saying Nolan should shun casting the big, well-known name, well too late, he already has done that a couple times.

Jolie is beautiful and can definitely act in a comic-book action movie, as "Wanted" proved. Plus she has got a powerful presence and audience pull. Certainly, other actresses should be considered, but for any list of a potential Catwoman to not include Angelina Jolie would be crazy. I trust Nolan to make the right decision --- afterall, a lot of people thought Heath Ledger was a terrible choice for the Joker, yet as Ledger's performance turned out, Nolan proved himself to be smart and a lot of people to be dumb. Nolan won't let journalists sway his decision and neither will nasty, anonymous comments on a blog.

[NO ANGELINA]

Angelina is super hot and is a talented actress (at least in Girl Interrupted) but she plays the same role in every movie. And she is every where!!! Please no no i beg please don't ruin the Batman saga with her face just because she is a big name and will hopefully get more ppl cus she wont. Did u see the movie Wanted -_- im sick of her bad assness to cool for school attitude in every role. Catwoman should be a less heard of name. Please Stay home Angie and take care of ur kids!!

[Amanda]

Angelina Jolie has had her fun with action movies.
I want to see someone who's actually a real actress.

I like some of the other idea's on here,
but I think Rachel McAdams could pull it off too!

Just PLEASE DON'T LET ANGELINA JOLIE ON THAT SET!!
She's too vamped up.
Catwoman also needs to have a shy side too you know...
I think a natural, but striking beauty would be better.

[dir en kei]

How about ....No!!!

Angelina Jolie as the cat women worst idea ever!!!
when i watch Angelina Jolie as any character these days I see her as Angelina jolie!!! she is too much of a big name.

how about a not so know know actor?
When i watch a batman film i want to see that character not the actor playin them.
Hey Hollywood' how about casting a small or no-name actor for once?

beside no one cat beat the Batman returns Catwomen Michelle Pfiffer!!!!!!!!!!

[Abraham]

I think it would be a good idea to bring Catwoman (I'm not sure of Angelina taking the role, but all is possible), so as the Riddler, but no villain is best than the Joker.

Of course, at first it is going to be very criticizable, but that happened at first with the news that Heath Ledger was going to portray the Joker, no one could think of a better Joker than Nicholson's, but thinks change. For my part I'm counting on Nolan to bring back the Joker (if not for the principal villain of the movie at least a good role... not like the one of the Scarecrow in The Dark Knight) with Paul Bettany in the role, I wanted him for the role of the Joker before I knew Ledger was chosen.

So, well we can expect surprises from Nolan's project, and it would surely be a good movie, maybe not as good as The Dark Knight, but a good one indeed.
__________________________________________________________
"Long Live Rock n' Roll"

[TK]

I agree that Angelina has nice face and in that face great lips. Well, that is not enough. She does not have Catwoman-figure. Better candidates are many: Jessica Biel, Amy Smart, Rachel McAdams, Kristen Bell, Kristin Kreuk and so on. I agree that some are young but it depends on the role. I have decades of "studies" on Catwomen starting on Julie Newmar. Movement my friends - how she moves, that is the key. I do hope they won't destroy Batman by choosing wrong Catwoman because for me- Batman is interesting because of his character and love interest - Catwoman.

[Manda]

While I like both Angelina and Catwoman, I hope they don't give her the part. Catwoman is my favorite character from Batman and I haven't liked a single catwoman since the black and white era. I've always thought of Jessica Alba as the perfect Catwoman. She has the perfect figure and can move the way Catwoman should. Unlike Halle's horrible performance... She looked like she had a steel rod in her back or something.

[Naomi]

LOL, I lovev the Halle Berry comment at the end of the letter but yeah really Chris Nolan has got no other choice but Riddler, who I think we will be seeing as Johnny Depp is in talks to paly him and Catwoman. All the other villians have elemnets of the supernatural which won't fit into Nolan's darker more realisitc gotham. I also have a feelnig we'll still see the mob lurknig about in some places. Whats good about Catwoman is that she can serve as a villian and as a love interest, it also shows some development in Batman's charatcer. For the past two films Batman has seen things in blakc and white, bad guys=bad and they must be stopped so to bring in a charatcer that challenges his beliefs will be really interesting especially with Bale's version of Batman, who is exactly as I would picture Batman to be. Jolie is th ideal catwoman, she's got lots of enrgy and stamina to do the action things and lets face it she's not exactly an ugly duckling is she? She'll certianly draw in the male crowd along with the female. I say if Jolie is cast is Catwoman, thats great but I say that she should do what Bale did and read the comics to get an idea of the character.

[Charles Few]

Instead, how about they keep the high acting standards that we've come to expect from this franchise, and NOT hire Jolie?

[Gemini71]

If I were directing the third Batman movie, I'd choose Alexandra Maria Lara to play Selina Kyle/The Catwoman. However, instead of making Ms Kyle a cat-lover, I would give her a phobia of cats, and have her use her fear of this kind of animal to make her stronger. Also, I would start the story by showing Selina's tragic progression from victim to villainess, as she uses crime to get back at her abusive ex-husband. Furthermore, I'd only have Selina christen the criminal side of her personality 'The Catwoman' at the end of the film, so that the events in the movie justify the changes that Selina's character goes through. That is why I want an actress like Alexandra in the role, because she has the talent to make cinema audiences invest themselves in the situations that create Ms Kyle's criminal alter ego, 'The Catwoman'.

[sassycn]

I do not think Angelina Jolie would be a good choice! She is so old news by now, i am so tired of hearing about her and Brad Pitt! Please find someone with more substance!

[christie]

Sassycn-- You think Angelina Jolie isn't interesting enough of as a person? You want some vapid hollywood star to take her place? It's not enough that she spends all of her spare time trying to help suffering children in third world countries? That's not enough substance for you?

Hilarious. Maybe you would prefer Paris Hilton as cat woman.

Give me a f'ing break.

[otter_03]

Catwoman could be done right... as someone else suggested, she's a kind of mirror to Batman. The ying to his yang. Ditch the skintight leather but keep the feline sensuality.

For Catwoman to be done right, Jolie should definitley NOT be cast in the role. That would draw the Angelina groupies, but alienate the people who genuinely appreciate the story and substance of the Batman franchise. Jolie's acting is effective in ceryain contexts, but is one-dimensional, and her turn at a Catwoman-like character is "been there - seen that" (snooze).

An interesting angle -- as someone else pointed out -- might be if Rachel Dawson/Maggie Gyllenhaal (Batman's "one true love"), came back as Catwoman. I think you could really play into tragedy of her apparent death and give Catwoman a bond with an "evil doctor" who saved her mangled body while experimenting on her, with the result being an insane but redeemable woman with some quirky laboratory-contrived powers who still, deep down, has a love-hate thing for Batman.

I hate to say it but anyone who thinks Ms. Jolie would be good in any role in Batman just does _not_get